Daily Journal Lists Booker v. City of Richmond Verdict, Handled by Meyers Nave, on its Top Verdicts List of 2012

OAKLAND, CA  – The Daily Journal listed defense verdict Michael Booker, et al., v. City of Richmond, et al. on its Top Verdicts List of 2012 in the state of California.  The list honors defense verdicts that have an impact in California.

On behalf of the City of Richmond, the Meyers Nave team garnered a significant win in this widely-covered multi-million dollar employment discrimination lawsuit. Seven high-ranking police officers sued the City, its Police Chief and its Deputy Police Chief in 2007, claiming racial discrimination, harassment and retaliation.  Five years later and after a three-month long trial in the Contra Costa County Superior Court, the jury rendered a unanimous defense verdict, rejecting all 28 claims.

The defense verdict had a significant impact in California because the City of Richmond took a stand rather than settle.  Richmond Councilmember Nat Bates told the Contra Costa Times and San Jose Mercury News, “[w]e decided as a council a long time ago to fight and not roll over, and that decision was vindicated.”  The City’s stance sent a clear message of support for its personnel and a message to those considering filing meritless suits.

About Meyers Nave: Founded in 1986, the law firm of Meyers Nave is recognized for its work with all types of public entities in California. The firm provides the full scope of legal services to cities, counties, successor agencies and special districts statewide. Meyers Nave’s areas of practice include labor and employment, torts, economic development, city attorney and general counsel representations, eminent domain, litigation, writs and appeals, public contracts and land use, public finance, crisis management, education and environmental law.